Three years ago, the Energy Chamber established the Innovation and Technology Challenge, a segment at its T&T Energy Conference which spotlights innovative projects, services or technologies which can expedite and improve the way things are done within the sector. The Challenge attracts submissions from T&T and the region, and this year 17 submissions were received. Of these, 5 finalists were selected by an expert panel of judges prior to the start of the conference, and each presented their projects to delegates attending the event.
The project which edged out the other four projects was submitted by Ramps Logistics, which proposed the adoption of MAWI, a generative AI solution developed by Valier Technologies (a subsidiary of Ramps) that transforms customs brokerage by automating every step of the process with speed, accuracy, and compliance at its core. The revolutionary software eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving significant time and reducing human error while ensuring strict adherence to international customs standards. MAWI leverages advanced AI to extract critical data from shipping documents such as commercial invoices, bills of lading, and packing lists. It assigns precise global tariff codes based on the latest regulations from the World Customs Organization (WCO), including explanatory notes and classification opinions, ensuring compliance and mitigating the risk of fines for incorrect classifications. By automating these tasks, MAWI guarantees fast, accurate customs clearance that keeps goods moving seamlessly through the supply chain.
According to Ramps Logistic’s Gerard Rique, ‘MAWI represents more than automation—it’s a paradigm shift in how customs documentation is managed. By drastically reducing processing times, enhancing accuracy, and ensuring real-time compliance with WCO standards, MAWI empowers Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector to modernize its trade infrastructure, improving efficiency and reliability in international freight solutions.’ The applicability of MAWI across business sectors is enhanced by the fact that it can improve efficiency while having tremendous cost-saving potential. Added to this, MAWI’s potential for revenue generation & its export potential makes it viable across sectors and countries. It presents significant foreign exchange earnings potential through licensing to customs brokers in US, European, and Asian markets. Additionally, it can be a recurring revenue stream from subscription-based global deployment, all of which will position Trinidad as a tech innovator in customs automation.
With the focus on doing business so that there is minimal to zero impact on the environment MAWI also assists in delivering reduced CO2 emissions through decreased vehicle idling time and lower fuel consumption from optimized port machinery operations. It will also mean improved supply chain predictability reducing emergency shipments and more efficient container handling, reducing workplace safety risks. According to Rique ‘Conservative estimates indicate that for every 1,000 containers processed through MAWI, approximately 2 metric tons of CO2 are saved through combined reductions in vehicle idling, optimized container handling, and improved logistics efficiency”.
There is scope for expansion into markets outside of T&T as the system's AI architecture allows easy adaptation to different countries' customs requirements and languages. Together Ramps and Valier Technology have structured the solution as a Software-as-a-Service model, enabling quick onboarding of new clients while generating recurring revenue through licensing.
MAWI has demonstrated success in real-world customs operations across Trinidad and Guyana, serving three customs brokerages with 50 active users since August 2024, processing up to 100 shipments daily. Companies in the US are already in active discussions with Ramps Logistics for possible adaptation into their operations.
The Energy Chamber congratulates member company Ramps Logistics and is pleased to have been the conduit for highlighting this ground-breaking and transformative technology that can impact the efficiency and cost of shipping and logistics across multiple sectors.